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190 



CALEB HASKELL'S I)L\RY. 



May 5, 1775-May 30, 1776. 



iEVOl.UTIOXARY SoLDIER's ReCORD BEFORE BoSTON 

AND WITH Arnold's Quebec Expedition. 



i-Diri-i). wrni notes, by lothrop withington. 



<^;^^^'^^^ 






WASHl>»^ 



NEVVBURYPORT: 

PU1{1.18HKI> BV WILLIAM H. HUSK & COMPANY. 

1881. 



V*J '^»a^/V\j , 




CTiK 






Tiu<; MicN who make history rarely keep diaries. When such men do leave hehind 
j.ittings of personal experiences, these are generally hut meagre records of the achieve- 
ments of the actors in the scenes referred to but not described. It is left to the men of 
study to perpetuate the deeds of the men of action. When, however, we do get at first 
hand historic notes, we should read them not as the carefully considered and finely 
embellished product of the professional historian, but as the skeleton plot of a noble 
drama which our imagination must people with ifs life and bustle. Who can read a 
play with warmth and enthusiasm unless he sees the characters before him with all 
their imjxissioned action and utterance, the villain with his polished •Kneer, the lover 
with his suidcen eye, and the heroine with her dangerous glance more perilous than 
twenty swords? The soldier who struggled through the forests of the upper Kennebec, 
who lived upon the scanty remnants of a canine carcass, who lay at death's door within 
a pest house, who stood in the besieging trenches amid the snows of a Canadian win- 
ter, and did the bidding of such a driving master as Benedict Arnold, hurrying from 
place to place, had little time for graphic story- telling on the line of march and field of 
combat. If his scanty notes, put down at hurried interval?, for his own use and not to 
instruct the world, read in their bare outline like entries in an almanac, it is because 
they are not filled in with the reader's light of history and tradition. The following is 
;i plain man's mention of events which he partook in and where the partakers have 
been raised to the rank of heroes. 



IThe Diary is reprinted from tlie Newburyport Herald. The copy used was one made several 
years since by Mr. (iKORGE Innis and in the possession of Mr. Isaac AVakken Li'itle. to botli 
of whom the editor is frreatly indebted. The original appears to be a sort ot vanishing jack-o'- 
lantern. VA^hen Joshua Coffin wanted it for his history of Newbury it was not to be found, 
and no one .seems to know of its whereabouts at the present time AVhen the copy which has 
been here used was made the original Was in possession of the late M08E8 Pettinoeli,, e8(iuir«, . 
son-in-law of the soldier who wrote it.l 



CALEB HASKELL'S DL4RY. 




AY 5th, 1775. — At Newburyport, 
' enlisted in the American army under 
the command of Capt. Ezra Lunt. 
May 8th, Monday. -This raorninK 
our company was called together. We chose 
our serijeants and corporal*. lu the afternoon 
Mr. Parsons gave us a discourse suitable to the 
occasion from Judges 7th and 20th. 

May 9th, Tuesday.— We are getting in read- 
iness to march to Cambridge. 

May 10th, Wednesday.— This morning we 
were paraded at town house. After attending 
prayers at .Mr. Gary's met ting-house and 
taking leave of our friends, we set out on 
our march. W^ took refreshments at Row- 
ley, at niirht we put up at Ipswich. 

May mil, Thursday.— Public Fast ! We 
set out at five o'clock in the morning, took 
breakfast at Beverly, attended public wor- 
ship in the forenoon. Mr. Hitchcock gave 
us a suitable discourse from Psalms o6th and 
8d. ; set out at noon ; took refreshments in 
Danvers; put up at nitjht in Lynn. 

May 12th, Friday. — Set out in the morning; 
took our breakfast in Myslick. We arrived 
at Cambridge at lialf after 11 o'clock; took 
our qu;irters a'. Bolin's (a tory) house. 

May 13th, Saturday.— This morning we 
were ordered on yuard at Inman's point. In 
the afternoon -had orders to hold ourselves 
In readiness to meet the enemy ; had an 
alarm ; the larger part of our army inarched 
down to Charlestown ; the alarm proved 
false. 

May I4th, Sunday. — In the morning were 
relieved from guard. In the afternoon at- 
tended public worship in the meeting-house; 
heard Air. Noble from Exodus 32 chap. 7 to 
12th ver-es. 

May 15'h, Monday. — In the forenoon I 
went to Charlestown; were called together on 
the common in the afternoon ; after attend- 
ing public prayers were dismissed. 

May IGth, Tuesday.— This morning, be- 
tween one and two o'clock, we were alarmed, 
proceeded to our alarm post immediately ; 
the alarm proved false. 

May 17th, Wednesday.- A pleasant morn- 



ing ; the whole army was paraded in the 
afternoon on the common ; in the evening 
about nine o'clock we espied a large fire in 
Boston. 

May 18th, Thursday. — Warm weather; no 
remark today. 

May 19th, Friday.— We removed from 
Bolin's to WiHgleswortb's. 

May 20th, Saturday. — I went to Watertown 
to see some cannon and mortars that were 
brought in ; this afternoon there was a man 
whipped and drummed out of the army for 
stealing. 

May 2l8t, Sunday.— Attended public wor- 
ship, heard Dr. Langdon, in the forenoon 
from Isaiah 26: 11; in the afternoon from 
Chronicles 15: 14. 

May 22nd, Monday.— Today a party of the 
enemy came out and landed on Grape Island, 
near Weymouth, in order to taki^ some cattle 
off the island. Our people at Roxbury dis- 
covered them. A tiumber went over on the 
island and beat them off without the loss of 
a single man. 

Set fire to a bnrn and destroyed it with the 
hay, and brought the cattle off at night. I 
w<nt on euard at Lechmere's Point. 

May 23d, Tuesday.— Came off guard this 
morning. Were paraded on the common in 
the afternoon. Heard prayers. 

.May 24th, W'ednesday.— All still in the 
camp. No remarks. 

May 25th, Thursday.— Attended prayers 
night and mornirig. Uur army in hisih spirits. 

May 26th, Friday.— Fine weather. This 
evening about 300 of our people went down 
to Chelsea to prevent the enemy from takii g 
the cattle off from Noddle's Island. 

May 27th, Saturday.— Today, a parly of the 
Massachusetts and New Hampshire forces, 
about 600, went over to Noddle's Island to 
bring off some cattle. The enemy landed on 
the island, and pursued our men till they jrot 
back to Ilog island, at which time an armed 
schooner belonging to the enemy came to 
their assistance, and to prevent our people 
from leaving Hog island — which she could 
not effect. Our people put a heavy fire of 



CALEB HASKELL'S DlAllY. 



small arms upon the barges. Capt. Foster 
came with two field pieces and began to play 
upon the schooner, which soon oblisred them 
to quit her. She then cauijht on VVinnisiinot 
ferryways. Our people set fire to her and 
burned her to the water. We saved all that 
was not burned. We took four pieces of 
cannon, a number of swivels and some cloth- 
ing, and brouijht all the cattle off from both 
islands. In the engagement we had not one 
killed, and but three wounded, and those not 
mortally. 

May 28th, Sunday.— This morning, held 
ourselves in readiness to assist our men fight- 
ing at Chelsea, which detained us fr^ra pub- 
lic worship. In the afternoon heard Dr. 
Langdon, from John 3: 16-17. 

May 29th, Monday. — This day, a quantity 
of the sp(jil taken at Chelsea was brought to 
Cambridge. In the evening saw a large fire, 
supposed to be in Boston. Harl a report that 
1000 men would come out; held ourselves in 
readiness to meet them. 

May 30th, Tuesday. — This day, the remain- 
der of the cattle taken from off the island 
were brought to Cambridge. 

May 31st, Wednesday. — This day the new 
Provincial Congress met at Watertown, 
before whom the Rev. Dr. Langdon preached 
a sermon well adapted to the occasion from 
Isaiah 1: 26. Joseph Warren, esq., was 
chosen president, and Mr. Samuel Freeman, 
secretary. 

June 1st, Thursday. — Nothing remarkable 
today. 

June 2nd, Friday. — This morning a man 
belonging to Haverhill hung himself in a 
barn. A number of men with artillery went 
about their business— private. 

June 3rd, Saturday. — This morning our 
men at Chelsea took a barge with two men 
near Deer Island; took two men and 400 
sheep, and a number of cattle from off the 
inland. In the afternoon the army were all 
drawn up on tlie common, when two men 
were whipped, and one drummed out for 
stealing. In the evening the barge that was 
taken was brought to Cam'jridge on wheels 

June 4th, Sunday. — This morning attended 
public worship at Cambridge; heard Mr. 
Cieaveland of Cape Ann, from Isaiah 1st., 21, 
22 and 23. In the afternoon went to Water- 
town; heard Mr. Woodward of Weston, from 
Psalm 126, 5. 

June 5th, Monday. —Nothing remarkable 
today. 

June 6th, Tuesday.— Today General Put- 
nam went down to Charlestown, ami ex- 
changed six prisoners with General Gage, 
and brought our men to Cambridge. 

June 7th, Wednesday. — This morning I 
rode down to Roxbury; went down to the 
lower sentinel, attended prayers on the com- 
mon in the evening. 

June 8th, Thursday. A very dry season. 
I'his morning a bad woman was taken up in 



the camp, in the afternoon was doused in the 
river, and drummed out of town. 

Jum; 9tli, Friday. — This morning our regi- 
ment was paraded. We had an alarm; ht-ard 
that 1400 of the enemy were landed at Nod- 
dle's island. 

June 10th, Saturday. — Today our people 
at Chelsea went over to Noddle's island, set 
fire to a building improved by the enemy for 
a store, and laid it in ashes. Those that lay 
near by fired on them several times, but did 
no damage. There is now no building left 
there. 

June llth, Sunday. — This morning was on 
guard. In the afternoon went to Water- 
town. Heard a sermon from Luke 12, 20. 

June 12th, Monday.— Nothing remarkable 
today. 

June 13th, Tuesday. — Dry, warm weather. 
In the evening had a refreshing shower. 

June 14th, Wednesday.— Today a number 
of trumpets arrived from Boston, with a re- 
inforcement of hor.se and foot; were ordered 
in readiness for a battle. 

June 1.5th, Thursda\\— Making all prepa- 
rations for a battle. 

June 16ih, Friday. — This morning I went 
on guard. In the eveninii a party were or- 
dered to Bunker's Hill in Charlestown to en- 
trenching. 

June 17th, Saturday.— This day begins with 
the noise of cannon from the. ships firintr on 
our men entrenching on Bunker's Hill. Ihe 
firing continues all the fore part of the day; 
but one man killed. Wi- were alarmed at 
Cambridge; heard that the enemy were land- 
ing in Chailestown. The army set out. We 
founii the tov/n in flames, and the Regulars 
ascendins: the hill ; the halls flying almost as 
thick as hailstones from the stiips and floating 
batteries, and Corps' Hill and Beacon Hill in 
Boston, and the ground covered with the 
wounded and dead, (^ur people stood the 
fire some time, until the euemv had almost 
surrounded us and cut off our r'treat. We 
were obliged to quit the ground and retreat 
as fast as possible. In this engagement we 
lost the ground and the heroic General War- 
ren ; we had 1.38 killed and 292 wounded. 
The loss on the enemy's side were 92 com- 
missioners, 102 .-ergeants, 100 corporals, and 
700 privates ; total, 994. 

June 18th, Sunday. — Early this morning 
were employed making cartridges and getting 
in readiness for another battle. A large re- 
inforcement cume in from th? country. At 
noon we were alarmed again. Marched to 
Prospect Hill which we were fortifying; were 
ordered to halt and wait for orders from the 
General. Marched back again ; had orders 
to hold ourselves in readiness to march at the 
first notice. The enemy kept a continua! fir- 
ing upon us at Prospect Hill, which we are 
forlifving. At 9 o'clock in the evening re- 
ceived orders to go down to the hill, march t.) 
headquarters. Received new orders to og 



CALEB HASKELL'S DIAKY. 



back to our quarters and bold ourselves in 
readiness. 

June 19lh, Mondny.— The dayliijht comes 
on with tlie noise of cannon from Bunl<er's 
Hill and floating batteries dischargitiff at us 
on Prospect Hill, whiub continues all da)'. 
The enemy set the upper end of Charlestown 
on fire. We mounted picl<et guard. 

June 20tli, Tuesday.— On guard this morn- 
ing ; we passed muster in the afternoon ; in 
the evening were relieved from guard. 

June 2lst, Wednesday.— Pleasant weather. 
We continued entrenching on Prospect Hill 
without disturbance. 

June 22d, Thur.'^day.— Today we were sworn 
and receive one month's pay. 

June 23d, Friday. — I'his day were ordered 
to Prospect Hill, where we are stationed. 
Went down, pitched our tents, went to en- 
trenclilng, 

June 24th, Saturday. — This morning were 
alarmed by the enemy marching towards our 
lines. In the afiernoon there vvas a hot firing 
at Koxbury. Two of our men went down to 
Bet the enemy's guard house on tire ; they 
were both killed. Three houses were set on 
fire at Koxbury by shells thrown from the for- 
tification, l)ut by the expedition of the people 
they were put out. We built booths with 
tutf and brush and moved into them. 

June 2")th, Sunday.— This day is showery. 
We drew our tents and pitched them in an 
orcbaid below Prospect Hill. In the evening 
a number of Indians went down to the ene- 
my's sentinels and fired on them. Killed five 
and wounded one. 

June 2(iil), Monday.— This morning is 
pleasant. In the afternoon we struck our 
tents and moved them about a quarter of a 
mile, and pitched them on a hill adjoining 
Prospect Hill. 

June 27lb, Tuesday. — Nothing remarkable 
today. 

June28th, Wednesday. — This morning were 
paraded; marched to our alarm post in the 
fort, where we exercised two hours over the 
breastwork. In the afternoon stormy and 
uncomfortable weather for us in our tents. 

June 29th, Thursday.— This morning at 3 
o'clock, three men were punished; one bad 
79 stripes for challenging his officer, one had 
39 stripes for* stealing, and one rode the 
wooden horse for abuse to his officers. In 
the eveiutig had a hot tiring at Roxbury on 
both sides. 

July 1st, Saturday.— This morning, about 2 
o'clock, a hot firing began on both sides at 
Koxbury, which lasted four hours. We were 
alarmed on Prospect Hill. Two ships ar- 
rived at Boston. 

July 2iid, Sunday.— This day the Hon. 
George Washington, esq., commander-in- 
chief of the united forces in America, arrived 
at Cambridtie. This afternoon had rain. 

July 3d, Monday. — Nothing remarkable to- 
day. 



July 4th, Tuesday.— This morning our peo- 
ple took four horses from the Britir^h. In the 
afternoon a party were ordered to Lechmere's 
Point to entrenching. 

July 5th, Wednesday.— This morning at 
3 o'clock we were turned out. In the morn- 
ing at 10 o'clock were alarmed by a firing at 
Roxbury. Proceeded to our alarm post; was 
dismissed in one hour; all still. 

July 6th, Thursday.— This day Rev. Mr. 
Cleaveland, our chaplain, came into the 
camp. Attended prayers at our barracks. 
In the evening a man deserted from our army 
to the enemy. 

July 7th, Friday. — This morning I was on 
main guard; were alarmed in the afternoon 
by a drum beating to arms; proceeded to our 
post; the alarm being false returned again. 

July 8th, Saturday. — Th's morning at 3 
o'clock our people at Roxbury went down 
upon the neck; rushed upon the guard; they 
retreated; our men set fire to the guard 
house; they made a heavy tire upon our party, 
which was returned; a smart engairement en- 
sued on both sides. Our lines manned for 
two hours. 

July 9th, Sunday.— This morning our chap- 
lain came and preached in our regiment, from 
Chronicles 6: 34; in the afternoon from Deut- 
eronomy 23: 9. A flag came from the enemy 
with a packet by General Lee. A man in a 
neiHhb(jrintr regiment was whipped twenty 
stripes for striking an officer. 

July 10th, Monday. — This morning one of 
the ships fired upon some of our men, who 
were in the water swimming, but did no 
barm. 

July llth, Tuesday.— Ibis day our people 
at Roxbury made another push upon the 
enemy's guard in order to set the guardhouse 
on tire, which they did and received no dam- 
age, and brought off one swivel, two small 
arms, one halberd and a drum. 

July 12th, Wednesday. — This morning our 
troops at Roxl)ury went down to Long Is- 
land; took eighteen men that were tending 
cattle on the island, and brought off nine- 
teen head of horned cattle and one hundred 
sheep. In the afternoon had a smart shower 
of rain, with heavy thunder; were something 
wet in our tents. 

July 13th, Thursday. — Nothing remarkable 
today. 

July 14tb, Friday.— This day a man at Rox- 
bury was killed by a cannon ball from a 
floating battery. The enemy are still here. 

July 15, Saturday.— Exceding hot, and has 
been this week past. We are daily employed 
in making strong fortifications in different 
places. 

July 16th, Sunday.— This morning heard a 
sermon from Ephesians 5 :16 ; in the after- 
noon from Judges 5: 23. 

July 17th, ^londay. — Nothing remarkable 
today. 



CALEB HASKELL'S DIARY. 



July 18th, Tuesday. — This tnortilnf^ at six 
o'clock the tcrand manifest from the Conti- 
nental congress was read to the forces, on 
and about Prospect bill, which were assem- 
bled on said hill, by the Reverend Mr. Leon- 
ard chaplain to General Putnam's forces. On 
the hill our standard was presented, with 
this motto: "Appeal to Heaven with the 
American Arms." After it was read Mr. 
Leonard made a short prayer; then were dis- 
missed with three cheers, the ftrine; of a can- 
non, and a war-whoop l)y the Indians. 

July I'Jth, Wednesday. — Last evenine some 
of our troops went down to entrenching in 
sight of Bunker's bill. At one o'clock this 
morninsj; we were called out and manueil our 
lines, as we expected the enemy out upon 
our party as soon as they were discovered; 
but they made no stir. 

July 20th, Thursday.— Tbis day is a Fast, 
appointed by the Continental congress. To- 
day the light house at Boston was set on fire 
by our people. Heard a sermon in the morn- 
ing from Psalms 50:15; iu the afternoon 
from Ecclesiasles 7 : 14. 

JulySlst, Fridaj'.— No remarks today. 

July 33nd, Saturday.— This day we discov- 
eovered the enemy landing off cannon on 
Charlestown common, and a large number of 
the eneinv drawn up on the hill. At nine 
o'clock in the evening we were ordered to be 
upon our arms. 

July 'i;3rd, Sunday. — We were turned out 
at two o'clock this morning; manned our 
lines; heard nothing of the enemy. At sun- 
rise r*;turned to our tents. Attendeil public 
worship today; heard a sermon in the morn- 
ing from Isaiah 46: 8: in the afternoon from 
Luke 7 : 31, 32, and 33. After service had 
some rain. 

July 24th, Monday.— Today all the troops 
under command of Brigadier-General Put- 
nam, except Colonel Little's regiment, were 
ordered to march from Prospect Hill, to be 
stationed elsewhere, their vacancies to be 
supplied with troops from Cambridge, Win- 
ter Hill, etc., under the command of Brig- 
adier General Green. 

July 25th, Tuesday.— This day two regi- 
ments of the Rhode Island forces came from 
Roxbury, and Ditched their tents on Prospect 
Hill, near the fort. 

Julv 26, Wednesday. —This moridng our 
regiment was oidered out of the great Fort to 
man the French lines— where we are for the 
future to vepair in an alarm. A grenalier, 
belonging to the enemy's side when on sen- 
try, quitted his post, came over to us and 
delivered himself a prisoner to our guards. 
The whole regiment off duty. 

Juiv 27, Thursday.— I'his morning two of 
the enemy's came over to our guards and 
were immediately conveyed to headquarters. 
No duty done in the regiment. 

July 2S(h, Friday.— This day one hundred 
men on fatigue out of our regiment. 



July 29th, Saturday.— The whole regiment 
on main guard. 

July 30, Sunday.— Last night about one 
o'clock, a party of the riflem'-n crept within 
the enemy's, sentries, but being discovered 
were tired upon, which occasioned a skirmish 
between them and the enemy's guards. Our 
party killed seven and took two prisoners, 
we lost a corporal of the riflemen taken by 
them. Between twelve and one o'clock we 
were alarmed and all paraded. There was a 
cry for volutiteers to follow such officers as 
would head them, when a'l our company to a 
man marched out, and some part of all the 
companies in the regiment. Then we 
marched up to the Fort and grounded our 
arms to wait for orders. The alarm was on 
account of the enemy beginning to entrench 
on Charlestown common, and the meaning of 
the volunteers was to go and beat them off. 
But they t)eing under cover of their own 
cannon, "it was thought prudent by the gen- 
eral not to proceed, and by these orders we 
marched back. Attended public worship in 
the afternoon. 

July 31st. Monday. — Last night at ten 
o'clock we were alarmed, marched to our 
alarm post, were soon ordered back again. 
The alarm was uecasioncd by a brisk tiring at 
the lower sentry. The enemy came out of 
their fort and drove back our sentry. All 
was soon quiet, and we were ordered back 
again and turned in. Soon after we were 
alarmed again with the cry, "Turn out, for 
God's sake turn out ! " We paraded again, 
manned our lines, and there remained until 
after sunrise. I'he larger part of the tdght 
the air whs tilled with the roaring of the can- 
non and tlie cracking of small arms on both 
sides. The riflemen had engaged them on 
Charlestown common. From two o'clock till 
after sunrise, killed a number of them and 
recovered five small arms, and lost not one 
man. At the same time they were engaged 
at Roxburv with small arms. Our party set 
flni to the "new light house; killed and took 
all that were on the island to guard it, which 
were 43 in number— 15 killed and 28 taken. 
Two of our party were killed by a cannon 
ball from Bunker's Hill, which kt^pt up a 
continual tiring all day. Between sunset and 
dark we killed fourteen of those that came 
out to pick uu their dead. 

August 1st, Tuesday.— Our troops kept out * 
in scouting parties, firing at them whenever 
they could see them ; had a very hot firing 
this afternoon ; not one of our side hurt; to- 
day a number of the enemy were seen to be 
carried off dead ; at night two of our Indians 
were wounded by our own men; the flag-staff 
was raised on Prospect hill. 

Autfust 2nd, Wednesday.— This morning all 
was still; had some firing in the afternoon on 
both sides. 

August 3d, Thursday.— A hot firing on 
both sides bv spells all day ; one of the 
Indians wounded on Tuesday night died 
lo-dav. 



CALEB Haskell's diary. 



August 4th, Friday. — Nothing remarkable 
to-day. 

Auiiust5th, Saturday. — Our whole regimeut 
on guard. All still. 

August 6th, Sunday.— This morning was 
relieved from guard. In the afternoon at- 
tendeil public worship ; about sunset a num- 
ber of the enemy lan<led under cover of a 
floating battery at Penny Ferry, on Chelsea 
Bide; they set tire to a house improved by us 
for a guard house — plundereil some sauce; 
we went down to Temple's wharf and beat 
them off. 

August 7th, Monday. — This morning we 
were turned out very early ; all the regiment 
off duty. 

August 8th, Tuesday.— This morning three 
companies of riflemen armed ariived here; 
one of them went down to the enemy's sen- 
tries and icilled one of them and came off 
without harm. 

Auirust9th, Wednesday. — This day a man 
In our regiment rode the wooden horse, for 
leaving his post when on sentry. 

August 10th, Thursday. — The riflemen are 
continually picking off the enemy's sentries. 

Autrust llth, Friday. — All still; nothing re- 
markable to-day. 

August I'ith, Saturday — It is a very wet 
season; all the remarks I have. 

August 13th Sunday.— This morning I went 
on guaid; in forenoon 3 shallops arnifd with 
swivels jind small arras, lying in Mystic river, 
Dear Penny ferry took on board a number 
of soldiers and went over to Clielsea, we ' 
supuose, in order to land ; some of our 
troops, as soon as they were in small arm 
shot of the shore Bred briskly upon them, and 
they returned the fire with swivels; there 
was a hot tire for some time, at hngth we 
beat them olf ; we sustained no loss on our 
8ide ; we killed fifteen of the enemy and 
wounded a number more. 

August 14th, .Monday.— This morning at 
ten o'clock was relieve'l from guard; nothing 
remarkable to-day. 

August 15th, Tuesday. — This morning all 
still; In tiie afternoon had a hot firing at Rox- 
bury on both sides; the upper ship fired upon 
our rangers at l.ech.nore's Point; we have not 
heard of any damage. 

August 10th, Wednesday.— To-day the 
eentiies fired at each other all day; an express 
came from Cape Ann for men; a number of 
riflemen n)arclie<l off ; one of the riflemen was 
shot throutrh the back by accident, but not 
mortally wounded. 

August 17th, Thursday.— Last night one of 
the picket truard was killed by one of our 
sentries, who hailed him, nut he cave him no 
answer. The pickets doubled toidght. 

August 18th, Friday.— The enemy keep a 
contiiiu;il firing at our guards and fatigue 
men at Roxbury. Hart a heavy shower; we 
got very much wet in our tents. 



August 19th, Saturday.- This morning one 

of the enemy swam out of Boston over to 

Lechmore'8 Point and delivered himself to 

• our guard. All still in this part of the camp. 

August 20th, Sunday.— This day attended 
public worship. Some firing at the lower 
sentries. About sunset were suddenly 
alarmed; went immediately to our lines; 
stood there till dark, and then retired to 
our tents. 

August 21st, Monday —Our sentry and the 
enemy's keep a continual firing at each other. 

August 22nd, Tuesday.— This morning I 
went on guard; at 9 o'clock had orders to 
keep a strict lookout; we doubled our sen- 
tries; all remained still. 

August 23d, Wednesday.— This morning at 
10 o'clock was relieved from guard. Nothing 
remarkable. 

August 24th, Thursday. We expect the en- 
emy out every dav, and have for a week past; 
all still. 

Autrust 25th, Friday. — This morning three 
ships arrived at Boston and were received 
with a proper salute. In the afternoon four 
of the enemy belonging to a floating battery 
swam away from her and came over to us at 
Prospect Hill. They were fired upon from 
Bunker's Hill, but received no damage. 

August 26th, Saturday. — This dav we are 
getting in readiness to go down ti> Ploughed 
Hill to entrenching at night. About 2U00 
went down, a part to work, and a part for a 
covering party; no stir tonight. 

August 27th, Sunday.— At sunrise the cov- 
ering party marched off; the fatigue men were 
relieved. Continue entrenching, and not in 
the least disturbed till 3 o'clock, when the 
enemy began to cannonade us from Bunker 
Hill and floatinsr batteries, wliich continued 
all day. The sentry engaged with small 
arms most of the day. We had three men 
killed and one wounded by cannon balls on 
Ploughed Hill today. We sunk a floating 
battery belonging to the enemy and disabled 
anottier with our cannon at Temple's wharf. 
Our sentries — riflemen and Indians, killed and 
wouniled a number of the enemy today. 

August28th, Monday. — No firing this morn- 
ing on either side. Our men keep at work on 
Ploughed Hill. In the forenoon we were 
alarmed; marched up to the fort; grounded 
our arms; soon after were ordered to go back 
and refresh ourselves, and then parade on the 
hill again— which we did, and lay by our 
arms until sunset, then marched back; nine- 
ty-seven men were drawn out of our regiment 
to go on fatigue at Ploughed Hill tonight. 
We had one man killed at Ploughed Hill and 
and one of our company wounded by a mus- 
ket at the lower sentry. 

Aug. 29th, Tuesday. — This mornine I was 
ordered to Ploughed Hill, cm fatigue; it being 
rainy we did no work. Kept a guard in the 
Fort. We bad five shells and a number of 
cannon balls thrown among us to<iay, but 
hurt none of us; at night were relieved. 



10 



CALEB Haskell's diary. 



August 30th, VVednesday.— This morning; 
is thick weather and rainy. The storm con- 
tinued all day. None of the men hurt at 
Plousrhed Hill today. 

August 31st, Thursday.— Continues thick 
and rainy today, which is uncomfortable 
weather for us in our tents. The enemy all 
still. 

September 1st, Friday, — This morning is 
stormy; clears off at 11 o'clock. I went on 
guard. 

September 2d, Saturday.— This morning is 
pleasant. We had a number of shells ami 
some shot thrown among us, but did no 
no damage. At night was relieved. Among 
all the shells thrown among us not one man 
has been hurt by tliem. 

September 3d, Sunday. — This morning there 
was a storm of rain. In the afternoon had 
several shells thrown at us from Bunker's 
Hill. Our guard killed and took 15 of the 
enemy. 

September 4tb, Monday. — This morning is 
thick and stormj'. Clears off pleasant in the 
afternoon. 

September 5th, Tuesday. — A pleasant morn- 
ing after a long storm. All still here. At 
night I went on guard at P. Hill. 

•SeptemberCth, Wednesday.— Good weather! 
No tiring on either side. At night was re- 
lieved from guard. 

Seotember 7tli, Thursday. — Last night the 
riflemen took thre*' horses from the enemy. 
Some firinsi in the afternoon in Boston. Gen- 
eral orders that no man go out of the camp. 

September 8th, Friday.— Our Brigade all 
off duty in order to pass muster. 

September 9th, Saturday.— Are off duty to- 
day. We were drawn up to pass muster, and 
were disappointed. Orders aiven to raise 
men to no to Canada. At night I went on 
guard at Ploughed Hill. 

September lOth, Sunday. — This morning I 
went on fatigue, in the afternoon 1 enlisted 
under the command of Capt, Ward for the 
expedition to Quebec. 

September llrh, Monday. — This morning 
marched to Cambridge. Joined Capt. Ward's 
company. Drew our clothing and got in 
readiness to march. Five prisoners were 
brought to Cambridge taken at Dorchester. 
In the evening I set out with a truard, with 
provision; went as far as Lvnn, end put up 
at Newell's to .vait there till the detachment 
came up. 

September 13th and 13th, Tuesday and 
Wednesday. — At Lyim, waiting for the parly 
to come up. 

September 14th, Thursday.— This morning 
the detachment came up. We set out with 
them for Newburyport; marched as far as 
Beverly and put up. 1 got liberty to go on 
to Newbury ; set out ; arrived there 1 o'clock 
at night. 

September 15th, Kriday.— This afternooa 



the party arrived at N. Our company 
quartered in the Town Flouse. 

September 16th, Saturday. —At Newbury- 
port, getting in readiness to embark for Ken- 
nebeck river. 

September 17th, Sunday,— Atteu'led public 
worship; heard the Rev. Mr. Spring, our 
chaplain. 

September 18th, Monday. — This afternoon 
we embarked on board the transports. We 
had 1100 men, commanded by Col. Arnold 
and Lieut. Cols. Green and Enos. Eleven 
transports. 

Se[)tember 19, Tuesday. — This day about 9 
o'clock weighed our anchors, and came to sail 
with a southwardly wind. After we got over 
the bar, we lay to, waiting for orders from 
the Commodore. At 10 o'clock received 
orders. 

First signal. — Signal for speaking with the 
whole fleet: Ensign at main-topmast head. 

Second signal.— Signal for chasing a sail: En- 
sign at fore-topmast head. 

Third signal— Signal for heaving to in the 
night: Lautcru at masthead, and two lights if 
head on shore, and three guns if head oil shore 

Fourth signal —For making sail in the night: 
Lantern at mast-head and four guns; and jacket 
fore-topmast head in the day. 

Fifth signal. — For dispersing, and every vessel 
making the nearest harbor: Ensign at main-peak. 

Sixth signal.— For boarding any vessel: Jack at 
main-topmast head and the fleet to draw up in 
line as near as possible. 

N. B. No small arms to be ilred at three 
o'clock. 

■ The jack was hoisted on board the Commo- 
dore. VVe made sail with a fine breeze; in 
the eveniuK the wind blew quick at S. E. 
About 1 o'clock we hove to and lay until 
morning. 

September 20th, Wednesday. — This morn- 
ing is thick and foggy weather. At nine 
o'clock the fog broke away. We made the 
land at the mouth of the river Kennebeck, 
at 12 o'clock. We got in and came to anchor 
in the afternoon. Came to sail, went a few 
miles up the river, came to and lay until 
morning. 

September 21st, Thursday. This morning 
is pleasant, but no wind. VVe hove up early, 
it being flood tide. We took our boat ahead, 
towed 15 miles up river and came to an an- 
chor at Georgetown. Lay until near night; 
then we hove up, made said, but ran 
aground. In the evening we got off again 
and came to anchor. 

September 22nd, Friday. — We made sail 
early this morning, and crossing Merry Meet- 
ing Bay we ran aground at ebb-tide. At 11 
o'clock the Swallow came up with us. We 
were ordered on board of her, then we went 
up as far as Col)bescontee, then came to. 

September 23d, Saturday.— Came to sail 
this morning; went up as far as Hallowell, 
where we were landed with all our baggage 
3 miles below Fort Weston. 

September 24th, Sunday.— This morning 1 



CALEB HASKELL'S DIARY. 



11 



took my pack, travelled to Fort Weston, 
where we encatnpeil cm the groutui. Several 
of the companies have uo tents here. VVe 
are very uncoinfoitahle, it beina: rainy and 
cold and nothiPii to cover us. Last niirht a 
man was shot by another that beluntrs to the 
detachment. Tliis afternoon the wounded 
man died and the suspected man was taken 
up. 

September 25th, Monday. — This morning I 
was on quarter yuard. A Court Martial sat 
on the trial of the murderer, brought him in 
guilty and sentenced him to oe hung. 

September 20th, Tuesday. — This morning 
a gallows was erected, the murderer brought 
out and sat upon it about half an hour, then 
was taken down to be sent back to Cam- 
bridge to have another trial. One man 
whipped and drummed out for stealing. The 
Rillemeu set oil in the batteaux. 

September 2Uth, Wednesday. — This after- 
noon we landed our batteaux and set (tut, 
part in the boat and part by land. Weiit 
aoout 2 miles, were obliged to wade part of 
the way, encamped by the river. 

September 28th, Thursday.— This morning 
I set out in a balleau. We beiiiu to Fee that 
we have a scene of trouble to go through in 
this river, the watei is swift and the shoal 
full of locks, ripples and fulls, which oblige 
us to wade a t;reat part of the way. Went 
twelve miles and encamped at Winslow. 

September 29th, Friday. — This morning 1 
set out by land, travelled four miles to Fort 
Halifax. Crossed over the river to Halifax 
falls, landed our boats at the foot of the 
falls, carried them over the carrying places 
one hundred and twenty rods, a new soit of 
work to us. To-night we encamped above 
the falls. 

September 30th, Saturday.— This morning 
1 set out in a l)atteaux. We had a tedious 
time to-day on passing the five mile falls 
[carried them over the carrying places one 
bundled and twenty rods a new sort of work 
to us*J when we were obliged to wade al- 
most ine whole way. Now we are learning 
to be Soldiers. We are in the rear of our 
Company. At night we encamped at Wins- 
low. 

October 1st, Sunday.— I went about two 
miles in the batteaux and four by laue. We 
encamped in the woods at Goshen. 

October 2nd, Tuesday.— We went about 
nine miles to-day, four of which were ex- 
ceediiiL'ly bad. We had to wade and tow 
our lioais. At night we hauled up the boats 
at Mfcoiiick landing place- in Canaan. 

October 3id, Tuesday. — This morning we 
caiii'd our boats over the c:irryiiig places 
about one hundred rods and set out with 
them, wi-nt al)out five miles. Encamped at 
Xorritlgerwalt. 

October 4th, Wednesday.- Set out early 
this morning. Had smooth water about 

*Erased. 



four miles, and one mile the water was ex- 
ceedingly rapid. Came to Norridgewalt 
carrying place. Hauled up our boats and 
encamped. 

October 5th, Thursday. — At Norridgewalk 
carrying place repacking our provisions and 
repairing our boats. 

October 6lh, Friday. — This morning em- 
ployed in carrying our boats over the carry- 
int; place, which is a mile and a quarter. Our 
bagKaee we carried by cattle. Here are the 
last inhabitants on this river. In the after- 
noon we set out, went about one mile and 
encamped. 

October 7th, Saturday.— I set out by land 
this inornintr. We went about seven miles 
and encamped. 

October 8th, Sunday. — A rainy day. Went 
about eight miles in rough shoal water. En- 
camped. 

October 9th, Monday.— A cold morning. 
Set out this morning in the boat ; went three 
miles; came to a carrying place; carried 
over half a mile ; set out again ; went four 
miles ; encamped. 

October 10th, Tuesday.— Set out this morn- 
ing by land ; travelled 'fourteen miles. En- 
camped at the great carrying place. 

October llth, Wednesday.— Unloaded our 
boats and hauled them up. 

October 12th, Thursday.— Took our boats 
and loadintr on our backs. Carried them 
about four miles; rough walking ; no path. 
In the afternoon we built a block house to 
leave our sick. 

October 13th, Friday. — A raw, cold morn- 
ing ; had some snow. A number at work 
cutting a road across the first part of the 
carrying piacn to a pond. In the afternoon 
removed our tent and bairgage and encamped 
by the pond. 

October 14th, Saturday.— This mornina: we 
brought the remainder of our loading over to 
the po:(l. In the afternoon we cios.sed the 
pond about one-half a mile, unloaded our 
boats and hauled them up. Encamped. 

October 15tli, Sunday. — This morning car- 
ried our boats to the second pond, one mile, 
and launched them. Crossed the pond one 
mile, unloaded the boats, carrieil them one 
mile in the woods and encamped. 

October 16th, Monday.- -Carried our boats 
and loaiiiiiiT to the tiiird pond, one mile from 
where we encamped. Loaded our boafs and 
crossed tiie pond, which was about two 
miles. Unloaded our boats and caiiied them 
one-half a mile In the woods and encamped. 

October 17th, Tuesday. — This morninir we 
carried our boats and ioadinir across to Dead 
river, two miles from where we encamped. 
Went one mile to the river and encamped. 

October 18th, Wednesday.— Pleasant day 
and smooth water. Went twenty-one miles 
on the liver. Carried over one carryinsr place 
about five rods and encamped by the river. 



12 



CALEB HASKELL'S DIARY. 



October 19th. Thursday. — A rainy day; 
This afternoon we set out ; went about five 
miles and encamped. Rainy, uncomfortable 
weather. 

October 20th, Friday. — Thick weather and 
rainy; travelled by land about fourteen miles, 
rouKh walking; ; carried our boats over one 
carryine; place about ten rods. 

October 21st, Saturday.— Continues wet 
and stormy; 1 travelled by land; exceedingly 
wet and t)ad travelline ; carried over two car- 
ryintr places, one about twenty and the other 
thirty rods; went about eight miles; encamped 
at a carrying place. 

October 23nd, Sunday.— Last night we lost 
by the freshet one barrel of powder and one 
barrel of pork, which were carried otf the 
bank; to-day we went about four miles ; car- 
ried over two carrying places; one about fifty 
rods, the other about seventy ; at night the 
footmen could not find the boats ; we en- 
camped in the woods; had nothing to eat. 

October 23d, Monday. — Set out this morn- 
ing, found the boats ; got refreshments and 
set out again; we took a wrong branch of the 
river ; wimt four miles out of the way, and 
had to go back again; got but five miles for- 
ward; carried over one carrying place abont 
fifteen rods; our provision grows short. 

October 24tli, Tuesday.— Last night a coun- 
cil was held ; it was agreed upon that all who 
were not able to carry packs and provision 
should be sent back; four were sent out of 
our company; an advance party were sent 
forward, commanded by Capt. Hanchitt, to 
go to the iuhabitanrs of Canada in order to 
provide for the army ; a sergeant and seven 
men were sent out of company for this pur- 
pose ; to-dav we lost one of our boats coming 
over the falls; saved the provision ; we have 
but three boats left ; we took our packs on 
our bacKS, and about noon. set out ; went six 
miles and encamped in the woods; we have a 
short allowance. 

October 25th, Wednesday.— The ground 
covered with snow; set out early in the morn- 
ing; carried over three carrying places, one 
four rods, one Hve rods, and one a'jout one- 
half a mile; got eight miles forward to day; a 
cold snow; a squally day. 

October 2()lh, Thursday. — We carried our 
boats out of the river into a pond ; crossed 
the pond; carried them into another pond and 
crossed that ; the two carrying: (jlaces and 
ponds about one mile and a half ; encamped 
by the pond. 

October 27th, Friday.— Three of the com- 
panies were aiscouraged and turned back; 
carried ovf-r two carryinir places; crossed two 
ponds the whole four miles; Col. Arnold with 
the advanced guard party sent back orders 
to l(.'av(^ all the boats and take what provis- 
ion we had on our backs and go on as fast as 
possible ; in the afternoon we hauled up the 
boats; all but one m a company ; divided our 
provision equally among all; got iu readiness 
to march. 



October 28th, Saturday.— Set out th's morn- 
inii with all our packs; went seven miles and 
encamped in Shedoer streams. 

October, 29th, Sunday. — Set out early in 
the morning. Six miles down the stream very 
bad travelling, tlirough a swamp, to our 
knees in water. 1 got in a bpteaux and went 
across the lake, which was 14 miles and then 
encamped away from the company. 

October 20th, Monday.— At the river 
Chandiere set out on the boat down the 
river; went 1.5 miles with great dillieulty, the 
river being so rapid and rocky. At length we 
were obliged to put in shore, for there is no 
passing by water. Three boats were sunk 
and stove" to pieces belonging to different 
companies, and all lost one or two men with 
them. The rest narrowly escaped. We 
built a fire on shore to dry ourselves and 
wait until our company came up, which they 
did about sunset, then we encamped. 

October 31st, Tuesday. — At Chandiere river 
a great number of our men being much beat 
out with hunger and fatitrue, twere not able 
to keep up with the main body. It was thought 
best to leave them behind to the mercy of 
the woods, and to tret along as fast as they 
could. At sunrise we set out, leaving 5 of 
our company behind; we had rough walking; 
over rough mount. dns and through almost 
impregnable swamps; travelled 15 miles, and 
then we encamped. There is scarcely any one 
who has any more than one days' provision, 
and that small, and a trreat number none at 
all. Some have had none at all for two days. 
Captain Goodiich's company have nothing 
but a large <iog, which they killed and ate 
tonight.. 

November, 1st, Wednesday.— Set out weak 
and faint, having nothing at all to eat: the 
ground covered with snow; travelled 15 
miles and encamped. Eat part of the hind 
quartei- of a dog for supper; we are in a piti- 
ful condition. 

November 2nd, Thursdaj'. — Set out early 
this UKirninir, very much discouraged, having 
nothing to eat anil no prospect of anything; 
we are eo faint and weak we can scarcely 
walk, obliged to lighten our packs, having 
been upon a very short allowance for sixteen 
days. VVe travelled about eleven miles, and 
to our great joy met a supply of provision 
sent out to us by Col. Arnold from the in- 
habitatits of Canada. We were alad to see 
them — our frienils — we killed one oi the 
cattle immediately and refreshed ourselves; 
encamped. 

November 3d, Friday. -This mornine we 
took new courage and set out, leaving but 
fourteen miles to travel to the inhabitants of 
Canada. A snow storm; the groing exceed- 
intjly miry. About two o'clock we espied a 
house — then we gave three huzzas, for wo 
have not seen a house before for thirty days. 
We came to the inhabitants; the village is 
called Satagan. The people are all Fiench 
and Indians, bat they are exceedingly kind 



CALEB HASKELL'S DLAJIT. 



13 



to us. Here we have provisions provided for 
us, but could not be entertained in a house, 
thnre being but three or four, and tho<e 
email. Tlie Indians live in wifjwams. We 
refieshfd ourselves and built huts and fires, 
but were uncomfortable, there being a bad 
BDow storm. 

November 4th, Saturday.— We set out 
early this morning; had bad travelling by 
reason of the late snow. We travelled ten 
miles and got refreshment; got liberty of one 
of the inhabitants to sleep in his house. The 
people are kind to us. 

November .5th, Sunday. After having been 
kindly enlertained tills morning we got a 
pasf-aire down the river fourteen miles, and 
put up at a house where we were Uindly n^- 
ceived. Here we found a woman who could 
epeak English. 

November Gth, Mondaj*.— Travelled about 
three miles this morning; came up with 
Colonel Arnold and the advance party; took 
refresliment and marched on; came to a place 
of woods just, at night, which was twelve 
miles llirough, which obliged us to travel 
late on exceeding bad travelling, almost knee 
dee<l in mire; put up in a house. 

Novenibir 7th, Tuesday.— A snow storm; 
very bad stirring; went about three miles and 
put up until afternoon; set out again; trav- 
elled three miles, and put up within nine 
miles of tiuebec. 

November Sth, Wednesday.— Set out this 
morning. We travelleil about four miles; 
were ordered to halt and wait for further 
orders. We are within three miles of Que- 
bec. We tarried all nisiht waiting for further 
orders. Our colonel has gone to I'oint Levi. 
We ex^"Ct^ a lireat resistance at Quebec. The 
Inbabitjnts have been very kind to us siuce 
we have been among them. 

November !*ih, Thursday.— A thick cloudy 
morniii<r. We have not had a fair day since 
we have been in the country. Went to Point 
Levi; set tioard there along the river side 
against Quebec to nrevent any passinii into 
the city. We took a miushipman bi-ionging 
to one of the fiigates. We have bui little 
prospect of obtaining the city at present. 

November 10th, Friday. — On guard at 
Point Levi. The frigates fired upon our 
guards several times. In the afteiiio/u was 
relieveil from truaid. 

November 11th, Satui-day. — At Point Levi. 
In the aftfrnoon we were getting in readiness 
to cross the river St. Lawrence, and making 
spears and lailders in order to scale the walls 
of the oily. I was ordered away to work 
makinii nic-ars. Went fourteen miles to a 
foiee; .It work all night after we irot then-. 

November 12tli, Sunday.— We were at work 
all dav until tiialit, wlien we received orders 
to so back to our quarters. 

November 13th, .Monday.— At Point Levi 
the carpenters were all drawn out to making 
ladders and paddles ; this morning all were 
ordered dowu to the river to a place of ren- 



dezvous, in order to cross over the boats all 
prepared ; a pleasant night ; we crossed the 
river undiscovered by the enemy, landed at 
Wolfe's cove ; marched up to the plains of 
Abram ; set guard on the plains ; took quar- 
ters in some Tory houses. 

November 14th, Tuesday.— This raorninjf 
the enemy ea:ne out and took one of our 
sentinels ; we were alarmed ; marched down 
witliin a few rods of the walls ; we were fired 
upon several times, but received no damage. 
We marched back again to our quarters. 

November 1.5th, Wednesday.— We were 
alarmed this morning ; the alarm proved 
false ; last evening our Colonel sent a flag to 
the city ; the enemy fired upon him ; he sent 
him again this morning, but he was refused 
again today ; we took two prisoners and a 
wangon loadeil with flour that was i;oing into 
the city ; we have set guards and cut off the 
communications between the country and 
the city. 

November 16th, Thursday.— At St. Foir 
this morning we sent out scositinir parties 
after cattle, .that were gointr into the city, 
but got none ; there was a brisk firinii in the 
city with cwnnot and small arms ; one of our 
sergeants had his leg shot off by a cannon 
ball ; the enemy keep a continual firing at 
our guards. 

November 17, Friday.— Pleasant today ; one 
of the enemy deserted and came to us, gave 
some information of affairs in the city ; today 
we took 140 bushels of flour and :i5 hogs 
from a Tory. 

November, 18th, Saturday.— Last night we 
took one band of powder, one barrel of 
coffee and one barrel of suirar that came out 
of the city. A number of the enemy sallied 
out upon our sentinels, but were liincly dis- 
covered and driven back. We had orders to 
lay upon our arms and be ready at the shoit- 
est notice. 

November 19th, Sunday. We were turned' 
out this morning at three o'clock. Our 
colonel told us the situation of our army is 
such that there is no probability of getting 
into the city till we are reinforced by General 
Montgomery; he not thinking it safe to tarry 
here,it was con-jluded best to march back into 
the country. Set, out on our march; went 
twenty miles up the river to a village called 
Point aux Tremble, and took quarters there. 

November 20t,h, Monday.— .\.n express came 
from General .Vlonlgomery who is on his way 
to Quebec. He sent orders for us to wait 
until he reinforced us. We took quarters in 
different houses in the village. 

November 21st, Tuesday.— Our army almost 
barefooted. All the-shoe"makers drawn out 
towoikup some leather taken from some 
Tories. Little or no duty done. 

November 23nd, Wednesday.— This morn- 
ing a uuard sent off to Cape Rogue Ferry, 
fourteen miles below Point aux Tremble. 

November 23d, Thursday.— This morning I 



14 



CALEB HASKELL'S DIARY. 



went on guard at head quarters. The post 
arrived this evening from Montreal, by whom 
we were informed that General MoutKomery 
is on his march to Quebec. 

November 24th, Friday. —This morning re- 
lieved from guard. Had some snov, to-day. 

November 25th, Saturday. This morning 
three frigates came up the river and anchored 
off of Point aux Tremble, where we are 
quartered. Heard from Boston by some 
gentlemen from Quebec. A frigate arrived 
here which had a bhort passage from Boston. 

November 26th, Sundaj'.— This morning 
the frigate got under way, ani went up the 
river. 

November 27th, Monday. — This morning a 
post arrived at head quarters, who informed 
us that a number of cannon and some am- 
munition was landed at St. Anne's, thirty 
miles above Point aux Tremble, which was to 
be brought down by land. In the afternoon 
a guard of 60 men were sent off to meet it. I 
was drawn out to go, — travelled tifteen miles, 
put up at De Shamble. 

November 2Sth, Tuesday.— Turned out at 
four o'clock this morning; travelled ten 
miles; met the ammunition and guns on car- 
riages; marched back to De Shamble; put 
up. 

November 29th, Wednesday.— A bad snow 
storm which detained us frum travelling. 

November 30th, Thursday. — The snow 
deep. Set out this morning. Bad travelling. 
We arrived at headquarters at Point aux 
Tremble at dark. 

December 1st, Friday. — General Montgom- 
ery arrived at Point aux Tremble. Came 
down by water on an armed schooner, accom- 
panied liy three men laden with provisions 
and stores taken up the river. In the after- 
noon were all ordered down to the chappel 
where the General is to land, to welcotne liim 
on shore. We paid our respects to the Gen- 
eral. Received orders to be ready to march 
at eight o'clock the next morning. 

December 2nd. Saturday. — The General 
gave orders ihat each man in Colonel Ar- 
nold's party have a suit of clothes and one 
dollar ill money as a present given to him. 
Getting in readiness to march for Quebec. A 
party of the General's men aniveii. I was 
drawn out to go down the river in a batteaux 
to c irrv some cannon down. Slept on board 
the Schooner. 

December 3d, Sunday. — Bad weather. .lo- 
eiah Carr, one of our Company, died with 
^ickness this morning. Loaded our boat 
with cannon and carriages. The wind blows 
fresh and squally. Set out at dark. Went 
down within six miles of Quebec and lauded. 

December 4lh, Monday. — To day we land- 
ed our cannon and unloaded our boat. We 
made an attempt to cross the river to get 
some scaling ladders we left before our re- 
treat. Could not by reason of ice. 

December 5th, Tuesday.— This morning we 



went to St. Foir and took our quarters there, 
two miles from Quebec. 

December 6th, Wednesday.— The most of 
the army has arrived. We are getting in 
readiness to lay seige to Quebec. The small 
pox is all around us, and there is great dan- 
ger of its spreading in the army. There are 
Spies sent out of Queoec every day, and 
some taken almost every day, both men and 
women. We have a strong guard set around 
the city, and last night tve took a small 
schooner that was bound for Quebec loaded 
with provision. 

December 7th, Thursday.— To day we took 
15 prisoners. VVe had several cannon shot 
fired upou our guards. A bad snow storm, 

December 8th, Friday. — This morning we 
carried two Held pieces down to St. Roehe's 
suburbs, against the city gates to prevent the 
enemy coming out. 

December 9th, Saturday. — Employed in 
getting cannon and mortars ready to carry to 
St. Roche's, in order to cannonade the city. 
In the evening the guard was doubled. 
Thirty-two men out of our company on fa- 
tiiiue. At one o'clock at night opened 
our battery threw about thirty shells into the 
city. We had a number of shells and some 
shot thrown at us. We had one man wound- 
ed. We are throwing up breastworks in dif- 
ferent places. I am on guard at the Nunnery, 

December 10th, Sunday. — This morning at 
daylight we moved our cannon and mortars 
from the suburbs. All still at sunrise. In 
the forenoon the enemy began to play upon 
us who are on guard and fatigue with can- 
non and small-arms. About noon the enemy 
came out of the city and set fire to St. .Johns 
suburbs which burned the rest of the day 
and part of the night. Our guards took two 
of those who came out. At T)it,ht we went 
down to St. Roche's with five mortars and 
threw forty shells into the city. The enemy 
kept up a continual fire upon us with cannon, 
and threw a number of shells out to us but 
did no damage. 

December 11th, Monday.— We have kept 
the enemy busy playing upon us from one 
part of the city, whilst we have been fortify- 
ing in another part. VVe have got our works 
almost completed. Today we had a man 
wounded, and a woman killed by a shot from 
the city. We have got our breastworks 
fipished on the plains. We threw thirty five 
shells into the city in the night. 

December I2th, Tuesday. — Exceedingly 
cold. Our guards weie moved'down towards 
the city; but little (iring on either side today. 
At niirht I was on sruard. We moved our 
cannon down to our batteries; getting in read- 
iness to storm the city. 

December 13th, Wednesday. — Today the 
enemy kept a continual firing with cannon 
and small arms. At night we were employed 
mounting our caiuion on our breastworks. 
We had a number of shells thrown at us in 



CALEB Haskell's diary. 



15 



our breastworks. At midnight we were beat 
off by the snow. 

December 14th, Thursday. - The enemy 
keep up a continual ririne; upon us m our 
breastwork*. We had three men killed and 
seven wounded in our fort. Employed to- 
nitiht in nettinsr in readiness to play upon the 
city iu the morning. 

December loth, Friday.-F.arly this morn- 
ing a hot cannonading began on both sides, 
which lasted several hours. We sent a flag 
to the city but were refused. Tne hrini: be- 
ga, again a. d lasted till dark. We had one 
of our carriu-es cut down, and one man 
killed on our breastworks. 

December 16th, Saturday.-Had but little 
firintr todav. We had one man Killed witb 
grape shot.' 1 am unwell, and have been for 
three days unfit fo'- duty. 

December 17th, Sunday. -I was ordered to 
the hosuital. A bad storm; could not go. 

December 18th, Monday.-Myself and four 
more of our company were carried to the 
Nunnery hospital. All still on both sides. 

December 19th, Tuesday.-Today three of 
those who came to the hospital with me broke 
out with the small-pox; I have the same 
symptoms. 

December 20th. We'inesday.-This morning 
my bedfellow, with myself, were broke out 
with small-pox; we were carried three miles 
out in the country out of the camp; 1 am 

'^December 21st, Thursday.-The small-pox 
spreads fast in our army. 

December 22nd, Friday.— Poor attendance; 
' no bed to lie on; no medicine to take; 
troubled much with a sore throat. 

December 23d, Saturday.— My distemper 
works very bad. Does not fill out. 

December 24lh, Sunday.-I feel much bet- 
ter today ; am able to sit up much of the 

'^December 25th, Monday.— Christmas ; a 
pleasant day. We have nothing from the 

"December 26th, Tuesday.- Ihere were two 

men brought here today with the small-pox. 

' , December 27th, Wednesday.- A man in 

, our room died today with the small-pox. X 

am g.-ltiug better every day. 

December 2Sth, Thursday.-All the houses 
In the neMiborhood are full of our soldiers 
with the small-pox. It goes favorably with 
the most of them. 

December 29th, Friday.— We have nothing 
from the camp. 

December SOth. Saturday.- My distemper 
leaves me fast. 1 went to the door today. 

December 31st, Sunday.— Heard from the 
camp that General Montsiomery intended to 
storm the city soon. A bad snow storm 
One of our company died of small-pox about 
twelve o'clock tonight. 

January 1st, 1776, Monday.-About four 



o'clock this morning we perceived a hoo 
engagement at the city by the blaze of the 
cannon and small arms, but could hear no 
report bv reason of the wind and storm, it 
being a Violent snow storm. We supposed 
that General Montgomery had stormed the 
city. Just after daylight all was still. We 
are fearful and anxious to hear the transac- 
tions of last night. This mondng I took my 
clothes and pack on my back, being very 
weak and feeble after the small-pox. Ke- 
turned to the camp. Found all ray officers 
and three of my messmates and almost all 
the company taken or killed, and the rest in 
great confusion. Could get no particular 
account of the siege till the afternoon, when 
we received the following: 

This morning about four o'ciock, the time 
appointed to storm the city, our army divided 
into different parts to attack. General Mont- 
gomery wss to storm the upper town and 
scale the walls, while Colonel Arnold was to 
cut the pickets leading from the walls to 
Charles river and enter the lower town as 
soon as the signal was given. Ihey pro- 
ceeded- it being dark no discovery was 
made. They got near the walls, when a 
heavy fire of cannon and small arms began 
from the enemy, they being prepared and 
expecting us this night. Here a number of 
our men were killed and wounded. Ihe rest 
not being disheartened rushed on ; came to 
the walls, cannon roaring like thunder and 
musket balls flying like hail. Our men had 
nothing for cover. Our General and his 
Aide-camp and Captain Cheeseman were 
killed t.ya charge of grape-shot from the 
walls, which put this parly in great con- 
fusion. There appeared no officer to take 
command. Colonel Camrael came up and 
ordered them to retreat. Colonel Arnold 
was wounded and brouiiht off and a number 
of his men killed or wounded. Ihe rest 
advanced and cut the pickets, so that with 
great difficulty they entered the town and 
took possession of the battery and secured 
themselves to wait till daylight. Hearing a 
great shout and the firing cease and not 
knowing the occasion, concluded that the 
General had got iu and the city nad sur- 
rendered. After it was light, to their great 
disappointment, they found it, otherwise. 
They found themselves surrounded and no 
retreat, and that th«y must fall into the 
hands of their enemies. Ihuswewere de- 
feated, with the loss of our General and up- 
wards of 400 of our officers and men killed 
or taken. Every Captain in Co onel Arnold j 
party was killed or taken, and but four of 
his men escaped and they invalids. 

January 2nd, Tuesday-Today Mayor 
Mei<^s one of our officers taken, came out of 
the ci.y on parole, and ha-< liberty to stay tiU 
Fridav\nd%arry the clothes belonging to 
our men in to them. He informs us that our 
people are used very well. 

January 3rd, Wednesday.-About twelve 
o'clock list night were a'^'med by a report 
that the enemy had come out upon us. 



16 



CALEB HASKELL'S DIARY. 



Marcher! to headquarters and found the 
alarm false. 

January 4th, Thursday.— The Canadians 
are daily joining: us. The most of our men 
fit for dutv are on guard. We hear that pro- 
Tlsions and wood are scarce in the city. 

January 5th, Friday.— We are in expecta- 
tion every night that the enemy will come 
out upon us. We took two spies who came 
out last niirht. Today Major Meigs went 
back, according to his parole. 

January Gth, Saturday.— At night we began 
to build a breastwork with snow to secure us 
from musket balls if the enemy should come 
out against us. 

January 7th, Sunday. — Today had orders 
to carry the packs and clothinT; belonging to 
our messmate prisoners to headquarters to 
be sent to them. 

January 8th, Monday. — This morning we 
carried tue prisoners' packs to headquarters. 

January 9th, Tuesday.— Heard that Gen- 
eral Worcester was on his way from Mon- 
treal. A bad snow storm today. 

January 10th, VVednesday.— Severely cold 
and uncomfortable. 

January 11th, Thursday.— Continues cold. 
In the afternoon we went to .the hospital to 
bury one of our company who died of a 
wound. At night a bad snow storm. 

January 12th, Friday.— Cold, uncomfort- 
able weather. The snow deep and bad 
stormine. One of our company died with 
the small pox today. 

January 13th, Saturdaj'.- Cold and squally. 
Little stirring. Nothing new. 

January 14th, Sunday— Continues cold and 
uncomfortable. No remarks. 

January 1.5t,b, Monday.— A bad snowstorm, 
and so cold that a man can scarce get out 
without freezing. 

January loth, Tuesday.— We had letters 
from our friends, the prisoners in the city. 

January 17th, Wednesday.— A cold snow- 
storm; the snow deep. 

January 18th, Thursda}'.- Clears off pleas- 
ant in the afternoon. 1 went on guard down 
to St. Roche's. 

January 19th, Friday.— At night was re- 
lieved from guard. This evening some of our 
guards at St. Roche's set fire to some build- 
ings there that the enemy were going to 
make use of for lirewood. 

January 20th, Saturday.— Moderate, but 
some snow. The enemy were firing some 
part of the day from the city. 

January 21st, Sunday. — A pleasant day. 
This mornitig three of our prisoners made 
their escape from the city. 

January 22Qd, Monday.— Last night some 
of our guards at St. Roche's set a number of 
ves.sels on fire that lay against the viilaire. In 
the evening I was on guard at St. Roche's. 

January 23d, Tuesday.— A pleasant da}'. 



We had several shot thrown at our guard 
house; in the afternoon we took three prison- 
ers — merchants belonging to the city; carried 
them to headquarters. In the evening I was 
relieved from guard. 

January 24th, Wednesday. -■ Moderate 
weather. One hundred and forty men ar- 
rived from Montreal. At night some of our 
guards set some houses on fire in St. Roche's 
suburbs. 

January 2.5th, Thursday.— This day, about 
noon, 500 of the enemy came out at Palace 
Gate. About 200 advanced almost to our 
guard house. As soon as we were mustered 
they retreated in again. 

January 26fh, Friday.— This day we had or- 
ders for all of Col. Arnold's detachment to go 
down to Bon Poor passage to keep a stationed 
guard, to prevent the Tories from carrying 
wood and provisions into the city that way. 

January 27th, Saturday. — Exceeding cold 
weather. 

January 28th, Sunday.— Mr. Spring, our 
chaplain, paeached at Camp Dryoisc. 

January 29th, .Vlonday.— Continues cold, 
but something more moderate in the evening. 

January 30th, Tuesday. — This day we had 
to go down the Bon pqir ferrv and join Capt. 
Smith, which was not agreeal)le to our com- 
pany, we looking upon ourselves a'- freemen, 
and, have been so since the first of January, 
refused to go. Our company consisting uf 
fourteen men fit for duty enlisted for two 
months under Capt. Newliall in Col. Living- 
ston's regiment. In the afternoon were put 
under guard at head quarters for disobe- 
dience of orders. 

January 31st, Wednesday. — To day we 
were tried by a Court Martial, and fiueii one 
months pay, and ordered to join Capt. Smith 
immediately, or be again confined and receive 
thirty-iiitie stripes, two niinutKS allowed to 
answer in. We finding that arbitrary rule 
prevailed, concluded to tio with Capt. Smith. 
Then we were released and went to our quar- 
ters. 

February 1st, Thursday.- This morning we 
marched down to Bon poir ferry and joined 
Capt. Smith's guard, much asrainst our will. 
Last night some of our guards at St. Roche's 
set some of the buildings on fire. Tlie ene- 
my firiiiit upon them with cannon and small 
arms, killed one and wounded two men. We 
were alarmed, went to our rendesvous. 
When all was still again went back to our 
quarters. 

February 2d, Friday.— Exceeding cold. A 
number of the enemy out in St. Roche's 
gathering up the ruins of burned buildings 
lor tire wood. 

February 3d, Saturday.— The weather al- 
most unendurable by reason of the cold. 

February 4th, Sunday.— Reinforcements 
are daily coming in. Twenty-five men ar- 
rived from New England. 

February 5th, Monday.— The weather con- 



CALEB HASKELL'S DIAET. 



17 



tinues extremely cold, it bas been so for 
three days past. At niRht tbree of our pris- 
oners made their escape from the city. They 
brought news of our friends, prisoners in the 
city, that provision is scarce, that thf enemy 
intends to come out upon us soon, and take 
our stores. 

February Cth, Tuesday.— It continues as 
cold as ever. There is little stirring by reas- 
on of the cold. In the evening we copied a 
bright light in the city, and another on Bon- 
poir village. Supposed it to be a siernal made 
by some Tory in order to carry some provis- 
ions in across the river. A party was sent 
from our guard to Bonpoir to find out the oc- 
casion of the iitiht. Before we had gone far 
the light was gone. We marched down to a 
Tories house where we supposed the light 
was made and set a guard this night. In the 
morning we returned back to our quarters. 

February 7th, Wednesday. — Continues as 
cold as ever. 

February 8th, Thursday.— A pleasant day. 
A large number of the enemy are out in St. 
Roches picking up the ruins of burnt build- 
ings for fuel. We had several shells thrown 
at our guard house, but they did no damage. 

February 9lh, Friday.- A severe snow 
storm came on this afternoon, increasing this 
evening. 

February 10th, Saturday. — The storm con- 
tinues. Such a storm, I believe, never was 
known in New England. Two of our men 
nearly perished going after provisions. 

February 11th, Sunday. — It clears off pleas- 
ant. Our commander sent a flag to the city 
today. The enemy did not fire upon him, 
but gave him ill treatment and refused to re- 
ceive any letters from him. 

February 12th, Monday.— Pleasant sun, l>ut 
cold, which is nothing strange in this coun- 
try. 

February 13th, Tuesday.— This morning 
one of our prisoners made his escape from 
the city. Two British soldiers deserted and 
came with him. 

February 14th, Wednesday. — A pleasant 
day, and the sun is so warm that snow eives 
a little on the roofs of the liouses, which is 
something remarkable. We had a number 
of shots fired at our guardhouse, but did no 
damage. Some troops arrived from New 
England. 

February loth, Thursday.— Raw, cold 
weather. Today we had a number of shots 
fired at our guardhouse, but received no 
damage. This evening six of our prisoners 
made their escape from the city, and brought 
one desert<'r with them. In the evening we 
had some shells thrown at our guardhouse, 
but received no damage. 

February IGth, Friday. — V\'e had a number 
more shot fired at our eruardhouse today, but 
none have done us any damage yet. 

February ITth. Saturday.— A cold, sharp 
air. We have shot flying around our guard- 



house every day from the enemy, but have 
received no damage yet. 

February ISth, Sunday. — We had a severe 
cold night and it continues cold today. 

February 19th, Monday. — Clear, cold 
weather; all still. 

February '^Oth, Tuesday. A moderately 
pleasant day. We had a number of shot 
tired at us today. Not a shot bas struck our 
house yet. 

February 21st, Wednesdav. — Cf^ntinues 
pleasant. This morning a hot cannonading 
began on both sides, which lasted some 
hours; we received no damage. 

February 22nd, Thursday.— A cold day. 
Our guard' divided into two companies. Set 
another guard below us, one mile's distance. 

February 23rd, Friday.— Cold, uncomfort- 
able weather. 

February 24th, Saturday. — A number of the 
enemy are'out in St. John's suburbs, taking 
down the buildings for fire wood. 

February 25th, Sunday. — About nine 
o'clock last evening had orders to lay on our 
arms and double our guards, as there is a 
movemri-.t among the enemy. We kept a 
good lookout, but all still. 

February 26th, Monday. — There is a brisk 
firing in the city with small arms. 

February 27th, Tuesday. — A warm, pleas- 
ant diiy; the snow beginning to thaw; at night 
we had some rain. 

February 28th, ^Yednesday. — Continues 
rainy; the going is exceeding bad. 

February 29th, Thursday.— This morning 
our company had orders to go to Bonpour 
village to Join a guard with Captain Bailly 
and relieve a French guard. We went down 
and took our quarters in a house by the river 
side. 

March 1st, Friday.— Extremely cold. In the 
afternoon we had a number of shot fired at 
our guard house, but did no damager 

March 2nd, Saturday.— Thick weather, and 
some snow; clears off pleasant in the after- 
noon. 

March 3d, Sunday. Severe cold. In the 
evening we took three prisoners who came 
out of the city. 

Marcli 4th, Monday,— Uncomfortable weath- 
er; in the evening we had a heavy rain. 

March 5th, Tuesday. — Continues rainy. 
This morning we hoisted a red flag before the 
city. At night a bad storm of snow, with a 
hard gale of wind at northeast. 

March 6th, Wednesday.— We had some 
rain this morning, but cold. We received 
our pay of Captain Smith for one month. 

March 7th, Thursday.— Pleasant weather. 

March Sch, Friday.— Some troops arrived 
from Philadelphia. 

March 9th, Saturdaj'.— The enemy are busy 
cuttinsr a channel in the ice to make a pas- 
sage into the lower town. 



18 



CALEB Haskell's diary. 



March 10th, Sunda\'.— Cold, uncomfortable 
weather. 

March 11th, Monday —A pleasant raorning;. 
This afternoon our house took fire on the 
roof; with much difficulty we put it out. 

March 12th, Tuesday.— A cold snowstorm 
and hard gale of wind; it clears off this morn- 
ing. 

March 13th, Wednesday.— This afternoon a 
party of the enemy came out of the city on a 
party of our men at Wolfe's cave, on fatigue. 
After a small skirmish the enemy went in 
again. 

March 14th, Thursday.— This afternoon our 
General sent a flag to the city. The enemy 
would take no letters from him, and ordered 
him back again, or they would fire on him 
mmediately. 

March 15th, Friday.— A pleasant day. 

March 16th, Saturday.— We are making 
preparations for another attack on the city; 
collecting fascines and other materials to 
build batteries as soon as the weather will 
permit. 

March 17th, Sunday.— It being St. Patrick's 
day we had the curiosity to go to Mass in 
Bonpoir. 

March 18th, Monday. — A brisk firing with 
cannon and small arms in the city. 

March 19th, Tuesday.— To day we had 
one peice of cannon and two howitzers come 
into camp. 

Marcth 20th, Wednesday. — Troops are daily 
coming in to our assistance fmm various 
parts. One large company came in today. 

March 21st, Thursday.- Cold uncomfort- 
able weather. Our battery at Point Levi is 
almost completed. 

March 22d, Friday.— A hot firing began 
this morning in the city upon our men at 
Point Levi, at work on the battery and con- 
tinued all the forenoon. Three companies 
more are ordered on to Point Levi. 

March 2od, Saturday.— We had informa- 
tion this morning that a party of the enemy 
had gone down the river by water after pro- 
vision. About one hundred and fifty men 
were sent down to obstruct them and three 
companies ot Canadians were sent to Orleans 
to strengthen our guards there. 

March 21th, Sunday.— A cold stormy day. 
One of our prisoners belonging to Captain 
Lane's artillery made his escape from the 
city. 

March 25th, Monday.— We had a number 
of shot fired from the city at our battery at 
Point Levi. One company arrived In camp 
from the Jeiseys. 

March 26th, Tuesday.— We heard from the 
party down the river. They have had a skir- 
mish with the enemy and have taken a party 
of thirty men without any loss on our side, 
only three men wounded. About two hun- 
dred more were sent to reinforce our party 
down the river. Upwards of one hundred 



cannon were discharged within a few min- 
utes in the city and some shells thrown at 
our troops at Point Levi. 

March 27th, Wednesday. — This morning 
about 11 o'clock our house took fire on the 
roof the wind blowing fresh at North West, 
the fire spread fast, we saw no possibility of 
saving the house, and went to clearing it as 
fast as possible. It was soon after burned 
down. We moved up to Bonpoir village. 
This afternoon some prisoners taken down 
the river wt're brought to headquarters. 

March 28th, Thursday.— Uncomfortable 
weather. Raw cold wind for several days. 

March 29th, Friday. — Some firing at our 
troops at Point Levi from the city. 

March 30th, Saturday.— One of the sruard 
at the lower guard house was killed by a 
cannon ball from the city. A number of the 
enemy came out on St. John's. We went 
down to them, after a short skirmish with 
them they went in again. We received no 
damage. 

March 31st, Sunday. — Kev. Mr. Briggs came 
to our quarters and gave us a discourse from 
36th Psalms and 7th verse. 

April 1st, Monday.— General Worcester ar- 
rived at camp ; we lost one man, killed at 
Point Levi with a cannon ball from the city. 

April 2nd, Tuesday.— We are at work build- 
ing batteries at different places. 

April 3rd, Wednesday.— This morning we 
opened our battery at Point Levi; there was a 
hot cannonading on both sides all day; we 
received no damage; we had some rain in 
the evening; the snow is now five feet deep 
on a level. 

April 4th, Thursday.— We had cannonading 
on both sides to-day. 

April 5th, Friday.— We began to work on 
the battery at Bonpoir ferry. The enemy 
discovered us and fired on us but did no dam- 
age. 

April 6th, Saturday.— This night all our 
company was on fatigue at the passage bat- 
tery ; two twelve-pound cannons were 
brought to the battery. 

April 7th, Sunday.— A bad storm of hail 
and rain; no stirring to-day. 

April 8th, Monday. — We fired several shot 
from our battery at Point Levi. 

April 9th, Tuesday.- At work on the pas- 
sage battery hauling fascines and plank for 
platforms. 

April 10th, Wednesday.— A pleasant warm 
day ! 

April 11th, Thursday.— Bad stirring ! The 
snow goes away fast; the ground overflowed 
with water. 

April, 12th, Friday. — We have an easterly 
wind that carries off the snow and ice fast. 

April 13th, Saturday.— It is bad travelling, 
by reason of the water beine: in many places 
in the road three feet deep ; the ground 



CALEB Haskell's diary. 



19 



begins to apoear on the top of some of the 
hills. 

April 14th, Sunday. — But little done on our 
battery on account of the badness of the 
road. 

April 1.5th, Monday.— The time of our last 
ens;atrement has expired ; we intend to set 
out for New England soon. 

April 10th, Tuesday.— We had an Invitation 
today from the officers of Col. Livingston's 
retriment to ijo to Bonpoir ; they treated us 
handsomely; after g'ling through the manual 
exercise we returnt- d to our quarters. 

April l~th, VVednesdiiy.— The general de- 
sires that we would stay a few days more in 
camp. 

April 18th, Thursday.— Our company went 
to headquarters to eet a pass to go home. 
By the general's desire we concluded to stay 
a few days longer; we have two tine ships at 
Orleans with which at a convenient lime we 
intend to burn shipping in the lower town; a 
woman belonging to the Pennsylvania troops 
was killed to-day by accident — a soldier care- 
lessly snapping his musket which proved to 
be loaded. 

April 10th, Friday. — Cold, uncomfortable 
weather ! The enemy flr'^d several shots at 
our guard house at Bonpoir ferry and 
struck the house two or thr»»e times. 

April 20th. Saturday.— 1 received four 
pounds of Capt. Smith; the enetny began a 
brisk fire upon our guard house at the ferry 
at different parts of the city ; damagec-l the 
house much; drove us out of it into the bat- 
tery but hurt no man. 

April 21st, Sunday.— The enemy have al- 
most beat our guard house down at the 
ferry, although it is very strong, nearly three 
feel thick through with stone; we heard the 
Americans had taken Boston. 

April 22nd, Monday. — This morning we 
opeii'-d our battery at Bonpoir ferry, fired a 
number of shot into the city and received 
some from it; being stormy in the afternoon 
the firing ceased on both sides ; 1.50 men ar- 
rived from Montreal on batteaux. 

April 23d, Tuesday. — A hot cannonading 
began on both sides this morning; we opened 
a bomb battery in the evening and threw a 
number of shells into the city. 

April 24th, Wednesday. — This morning we 
began to tire hot shot from the ferry battery; 
as one of our men was ramming home a 
cartridge in one of the guns— we had fired hot 
shot out of it— the piece not being well 
sponged — the cartridge took fire and mortally 
wounded the man. 

April 25tU, Thursday. — We have kept a 
steady cannonading from the batteries for 
three days past. 

April 26th, Friday.— A storm of rain ; but 
little firing on either side today ; we sp'lt a 
twelve-pounder In our battery at the ferry 
which wounded a number, but none mor- 
tally. 



April 27th, Saturday. — This morning we 
mounted a brass twenty-four-pound cannon 
In the ferry battery— discharged her once 
and broke the axletree, which was all we 
fired to-day. 

April 28th, Sunday.— Fine pleasant weath- 
er; a number of troops arrived in camp from 
New England; we have a steady cannonading 
on both sides today. 

April 29th, Monday.— A number of the 
the New York troops are discharged and are 
to set off for home up the river by v.'ater to 
morrow morning. This morning we mount- 
ed our Brass peice again and got in readi- 
ness for a warm fire in the morning. 

April 30th, Tuesday. — Thick rainy weather. 
No firing today on either side. Gen. Thomas 
Is expected in camp with a large reinforce- 
ment; when he arrives we that are left of Col. 
Arnold's detachment are to be discharged. 

May 1st, Wednesday — We had snow last 
night. A raw cold day. But little tiring on 
either side for some days past. 

May 2d, Thursday. — Gen. Thomas ari'ived 
in camp with five hundred men. We had a 
report that there is a British fleet in the river. 

May 3d, Friday. — Our Captain went to 
headquarters to get a pass for us to go home, 
he got a promise of one. In the evening we 
brought up some of our flreships against the 
city, and set them on fire, but being to late 
in the tide did no execution. 

May 4th, Saturday. — The Canadians troops 
are all called Into hea'lqiaarters. it Is sup- 
posed that there will be another attack on 
the city soon. Our captain got our discharge 
and a pass for us to march home. 

May 5th, Sundaj'. — We marched to Head 
Quarters to get in readiness to march home. 

May 6th, Monday. — This morning three 
frigates came up the river, anchored before 
the city. W^e drew four days provisions. At 
three o'clock marched for home. The frig- 
ates firing a parting salute. We march-d 
up as far as Point aux Tremble. An express 
overtook us and told us tliat the whole army 
was on the retreat. That the enemy came 
out and drove all our array off the ground, 
took our cannon and a number of our sick." 
We marched on five miles farther and put up 
being much fatigued. 

May 7th, Tuesday. — We set out before day- 
break. All our army is on a retreat, fol- 
lowed by three ships. Some of our men were 
taken at Point aux Tremble, and a schooner 
and a brig which whe have had in possession 
all winter. The frigates are beating up the 
river. We were stopped at Shambo till after- 
noon, then we set out again and marched 
the greater part of the night. 

May 8th, Wednesday. — Our army stopped 
at Point Shambo in order to make a stand 
against the enemy. We marched and got 
within three miles of Three Rivers when we 
put up. 

May 9th, Thursday.— We came to Three 



20 



CALEB Haskell's diary. 



Rivers this mornine. I am much beat out and 
so lame I can scarcely walk one step. I fell 
in with one Mr. Hoisted, a eentleman from 
Quebec who has got his farail}' with him, and 
is tfoinjj; to move to New York. 1 got into 
his boat with his family. About noon set 
out frotn Three Rivers and went twentj'-seven 
miles up the river. 

May 10th, Friday.— We set out early in the 
moruinti; crosseil a lake in the river when we 
met with some difficulty, it being squally 
and we a good distance from land. We 
arrived at night within two miles of the river 
Sorrel. 

May llth, Saturday. — We arrived at Sr>rrel 
river this morning, tarried all day waiting 
for a batteaux to proceed up the river. Here 
is a Prussian general and a number of troops 
fortifying the mouth of the river. 

May 12th, Sunday. — We set out about nine 
o'clock, went about twenty miles up the river 
to a village called St. Dennis, where we tarried 
all night. 

May 13th, Monday.— We had a head wind, 
got but a little way up the river. We put up at 
a village called St. Charles, about three 
leagues from Fort Shambole. 

May 14th. Tuesday.— We arrived at Fort 
Shambole this afternoon, unloaded our boats 
and tarried in the Fort tonight. 

May IStli, Wednesday. — This afternoon we 
set out by land, arrived at St. John's Fort, 
about nine o'clock and put up. 

May 16th, Thursday. — Our company has 
gone over the lake, they set out last night. I 
am detained for a passage, there is no provis- 
sion to be had here. My musket was seized; 
valui'd at ten dollars. 

May 17th, P'riday. — Mr. Hoisted and his 
family have arrived here. I expect to go over 
the lake with them, hut can get no boat at 
present. 

May 18th, Saturday. There is an Indian 
canoe going over the lake. I have got liberty 
to go in her. We set out about nine from 
St. Johns; went about 30 miles up the lake to 
the white house and stopped all night. We 
met with si.me provi-iou at the Isie of 
Norce. 

May 19th, Sunday. We set out at day- 
light, went about 15 miles. The wind blew 
hard against us, we put ashore on an island 
to wait until it is more moderate. A li\tle 
before night we set out again; went a few 
miles to another island, and there we tarried 
all night. 

May 20th, Monday.— Pleasant morniui;;; 
we set out early — got within at)out 12 miles of 
Crown Point; the wind blew so hard aeainst 
us that we had liked to have perished before 
we coulil get to the land. We left our boat 
and set out in the woods to travel to Crown 
Point. Travelled about 10 miles, found a 
house where we tarried all night. 



May 21st, Tuesday.— We set out In the 
wooil's again, travelled until noou, came to a 
house where we tarried until sunset, then 
we crossed over a bay to Crown Point. 

May 22nd, Wednesday. — This morning five 
of us in company crossed the lake from C. 
P,, took a path iu the woods leading to No. 
4. We travelled to Otter Creek and put up. 

May 23rd, Thursday. — We had some rain 
this mornine, which detained us a few hours. 
We set out, travelled to Derum, put up at a 
public house. 

May 24th, Friday. — Set out this morning; 
travelled twenty-seven miles to Cavendish, 
put up at a public house. 

May 25th, Saturday. — Set out this morning; 
came to No. 4 ferry. In the afternoon 
crossed over, made a stop at No. 4; then we 
travelled about two miles to Major Bellows', 
and put up at a public house. 

May 26th, Sunday.— We set out early in 
the morning; travelled through Walpole, and 
and here we had a rainy day. Came to 
Swansy and put up. 

May 27th, Monday.— Set out early in the 
morning. Bad travelling. Travelled through 
Fitz VVilliam. At night came to Ashburnham 
and put up. 

May 2yth, Tuesday. — Set out this morning. 
Travelled through Westminister and Lunen- 
burj^; came to Littletown and put up. 

May 29th, Wednesday. — Set out in the 
mornine; travelled to Concord, when I over- 
took some of mv messmates, whom 1 have 
not seen since I was at Three Rivers. Set out 
again; travelled through Billerica; came to 
Andover and put up. 

May 30th, Thursday.— Set out this morn- 
ing; travelled through Boxford and Brad- 
ford. About twelve o'clock arrived at New- 
buryport. Found all friends well. 

Distances: 

58 miles from mouth Kennebec river to Fort Wes- 
ton. 

18 miles from Fort Weston to Fort Halifax. 

aO miles from Fort Halifax to Meconick carrying 

place. 
9 milf 8 from Meconick carrying place t© Norridg- 

walk 

19 miles from Norridgewalk to Corretunkers car- 

rying place. 

18 miles from Corretunkers carrying place to the 
Great carrying place. 

14 miles across the Great carrying place to Dead 
river. 

86 miles up Dead river to the first pond. 

8 miles across the ponds and carrying places to 
Chaudieu streams. 

74 miles from Chandieu streams to the first inhab- 
itants. 

,54 miles from Sattigan to Quebec. 

150 miles from Newburyport to Kennebeck. 

538 miles from Newburyport to the City of Que 
bee. 



N O T E S. 



Captain Ezra Luut's Company. 

This company was composed exclusively of 
Xewburyport soldiers, exceptini; one or two cred- 
ited to Newbury. The men really belonged in 
part to Newbury, but appear to have almost all 
enlisted on the quota of Newburyuort. Newbury 
at that time included seveu-eigbths of the present 
territory of Newhurynort and where more than a 
third of the inhabitants dwell. The company was 
one of the linest bands of men ever enlisted in a 
noble cause. The commander was a stage driver 
and for some time the publisher of the "Essex 
Journal," the newspaper started in Newburyport 
by Isaiah Thomas. The ttrst lieutenant of the 
company was a brother of the captain, and he 
kei)t an interesting diary of the service rendered 
by the company during the year 1715, which is 
now in possession of his grandson, Daniel Lunt, 
of Oldtown, (Newbury, 1 and which has been print- 
ed by Dr. s. A. Green of Boston. The story goes 
that the company was started in the Old South 
church after a stirring discourse from Rev Jona- 
than Parsons, the pastor, Captain Lunt being the 
first to volunteer. Captain Lunt afterwards did 
most excellent service for his country in various 
positions of trust in the army during the whole of 
the W'lr. His company, as will be seen in the 
text, formed one of the eight of Colonel Moses 
Little's (17th) 'eglment. The roll of the members 
is found at the State House in at least two collec- 
tions, one dated in April, 177ti, but giving the ser- 
vice for May 2, 1775, to August 1, 1775, and the 
othi'r amoiiir what are called the "coat rolls," 
which was made out on the first of October, n?.'?, 
ami which is a little changed. This last gives the 
names of twenty men, including our diarist, who 
bad joined the Quebec expedition. The names 
are familiar ones, to the ears of Newburyport, 
more than three quarters of them having descend- 
ants here and nine-tenths of the names having 
representatives in the place. The rolls are worthy 
of preservation. Ir will be seen that our friend 
.Mr. Haskell furnished music for the band of 
patriots, thouirh afterwards he became a private. 
The first roll is as follows: 

NAME. RANK. ENLISTED. TO. 

Kz:a Lunt. Capta'n May -2. Ausi. 1. 

I'.iul Lunt. 1st Lieut 

NaiiKiniel Montgomery. 2d Lieut.. 

Ko'uTl F:>\vUt. Sergeant " " 

Nathiiiiiei .Milchell. Sergeant 

John MrLurtv. StTLTi-ant 

K.lmuiul Morse. Se. -jr,...,,, .. 

Timoiltv l":iliiiiT. Corporal 

Wllliaiii llala,l;iy. torp..i-ul •' 

Mose? Kim'>,iil. Corporal 

Kliptialot I'iUsbury, Corpor.il 

Henjamin I'earsou. Drummer 

Benjamin NeivmMn. Drummer 

Bishop Norton, Fifer 



Caleb Haskell, Fifer May 2. Aug. L 

William Coker, Private 

William Shackford, " " 

Daniel Ela, " 

Thomas Gould " " 

Enoch Pierce " " " 

Parker Chase " " " 

Michael Caswell " " " 

Enoch Richardson " 

Moses Cross ' '' " 

John Brown " '" 

Nath'l Stevens Babson " '• 

John Stickney " " " 

John Sleeper " " '• 

Moses George " " " 

Moses Moores " " "' 

Nathaniel Smith " " " 

John Perry " " " 

Robert Marsliall " 

John Smith " 

Thomas Botter '" 

Samuel Stickney " " 

Joseph Wood " " 

Moses Rogers " " 

Josiah Carr " *' 

John Goodhue " 

Abraham Knowlton '• " 

Jacob True " " " 

Timothy Condren " " " 

Mayo Greenleaf "' " " 

David Pearson " " 

John C. Roberts " "' 

David Rogers " 

Nathaniel Warner " " " 

Samuel Lankester " " " 

Enoch Foot " 

Jesse Emery " 

Thomas Hammond " " 

Barth. L. Spoouer " 

John Matchell " •' " 

Richard Shay " July 17 

Benjimin Davis " " " 

Scipper Lunt " " 

Moses Merrill '' , " •' 

John Shackford " " " 

James Pinder " ....... " ' 

Richard Goodwin " 

John Chase " May 2 

John Holaday '• 

Joseph narl)urt " " " 

Zachariah Sawtel " " " 

Samuel Phipps " " " 

[N. B. The last four men are credited to New- 
bury. All the others to Newburyport, although 

Newbury is credited with furnishing arms to quite 
a large number of them \ 

The second roll is more interesting as giv- 
ing the ages and correct inir some of the mis- 
takes in the name*. It was a roll of the men 



99 



CALEB HASKELL'S DIARY. 



who had eullsted for eie;ht months and were 
entitled to coats from the province. All 
these rolls at the State House have a column 
headed "Quebec." In this column are placed 
all men who had joined the expedition the 
month before, thej' evidentlj' being consid- 
ered as on detached service and still mem- 
bers of their respective companies : 
A return of Captain Ezra Lunfs Comp''y in the 
17th Begiment of Foot in ye service of ye United 
Collinies of North America, commanded by Col. 
Moses Little, 

NAME. RANK. AGE. ENLISTED 

Ezra Lunt Captain 32 May 2. 

PaulLuntw 1st Lieut. 28 

Nath'l Alontgomery.. .2d Lieut. 24 

Kob'tFowle Sergt. major 32 

Nath'l Mitchell Serg'i 23 

John McLarty " 2t> " 

Edmund Morse " 2.5 

Timothy Palmer " 23 

William Holliday Coiporal 21 

Moses Kimball " 2i " 

Eliphalet Pilsbury.... 24 

Will'm Coker " 24 

Bishop Norton (. Drums'and I 23 

Benj'n Pearson ) fifes. (32 " 

Daniel Ela Private 25 

Enoch Pierce " 20 •' 

Parker Chase " 31 " 

Michael Caswell " 22 

Moses Moores " 20 

Nath. Smith " 22 

JohnPcrry " li> 

Rob't Marshall " 20 

John Smith " 20 

Samuel Stickney "' 22 

Moses Rogers " 19 

John Chase " 18 

Abram Knowlion " 18 " 

Timothy Condry " IH 

David Pearson " !■' " 

David Rogers " 18 " 

Nath'l Warner " 19 " 

Eich'd Hanuel took Jo- 
seph Wood's place. . " 30 " 
Samuel Lancaster " 32 

Thomas Hammond " 25 " 

John Marshall " 20 

Rich'd Shay '• 29 July 17 

Benj'n Davis " 18 

Skipper Lunt '" H 

James Pinder " ^'5 " 

Richard Goodwin '* 34 " 

*CaIeb Haskell " 21 May 2 

*Wm. Shackford " 22 

*Thomas Gould " 24 " 

*Enoch Richardson.. . " 21 " 

*Moses Cross " 28 " 

*Nath. Babson " 25 

*Jona. Stickney " 20 " 

♦John Sleeper " 21 '• 

*Mose8 George '■ 35 

*Thomas Bolter " 18 

*Josiah Carr " 22 

*John Goodhue '' 20 

♦Jacob True " 21 

*Mayo Greenleaf " 22 

*John Carr Roberts... " 20 

*Enoch Foot " 27 " 

* Jesse Emery " 24 

*Barth'w Spooner.... " 20 '" 

*Moses Merrill " 19 July 17 

*John Shackford " 19 

*The names prefixed with a star (*) have "Que- 
bec" written opposite their names, indicating 
that, at the date of the roll, they were no 
Arnold-s expedition. 



Bolin's and Wlgglesworth's. 

These two houses at Cambridge where the dia- 
rist mentions as being quartered with his com- 
pany are also mentioned by Paul Lunt. All the 
additional informatioa he gives is that the former 
was Mr. John Bolin. Wigglesworth's was un- 
doubtedly the residence of Edward Wisrglesworth, 
Hollis pi'ofes-or at Harvard, and first cousin of 
Col. Edward Wigglesworth. one of the leaders in 
Newburyjjort revolutionary affairs. The latter 
shed additional lustre on an already illustrious 
family. Although one of the best known officers 
in the army and one of the most prominent, men 
in the affairs of the commonwealth, he so devoted 
his means to his country's cause as to impoverish 
himself. His wife was obliged to receive the 
regular soldier's aid from the town, and the 
colonel died a poor pensioner himself. 

The Draft for Quebec. 

The men who accompanied Colonel Arnold 
through the Maine forest were taken from vari- 
ous regiments around Boston, according as they 
voluteered. They appear to have been consid- 
ered as on a detached service. The other New- 
buryport and Newbury men, beside those already 
indie ited iu the roll of Captain Lunfs company, 
who left local companies to join the expedition, 
appear on the state house rolls as follows: 
From Capt. Timothy Barnard's company of Col. 

Moses Little's regiment: 

NAME. PLACE. AGE. 

Sergeant Nicholas Titcomb, Newbury, 25, May 9. 

Private Patrick Herrington, NPort, 25, "* 
William Pav, " 22, 

Patrick Tracy, " 25, 

From Capt. Jacob Gerrish's company of Col. 
Moses Little's regiment: 

NAME. PLACE AGE 

Drummer Benjamin Newman, NPort, 20, Sept. 5, 

From Capt. Benjamin Perkins's company of Col. 
Moses Little's regiment: 

NAME. PLACE. AGE. 

Private Benjamin Hall Tappan, NPort, 22, June 8. 

Perhaps there may have been others from scat- 
tering commands, who belonsed to the towns at 
the mouth of the Merrimac, but probably but few. 
The chaplain, as is well known, was from Ncw- 
burvport. Rev. Samuel Spring, pastor for many 
years of the North Congregational society. 



Eating a Dojr. 

The simple narrative of our writer does not 
adorn the sufferings endured by the band with the 
romance of heroism, but his mention of one com- 
pany having to subsist on the flesh of a dog was 
onlv one item in a series of terrible privations 
undergone. The grand attempt of Arnold's band 
could not be more fitly commemorated than by 
the following beautiful lines pnblished by an 
anonymous writer in the New York Journal of 
Commerce just before the breaking out of the 
rebellion. No fitter time could have been se- 
lected for this composition, than then, when the 
recital of such valorous deeds of their ancestors 
might well influence the military spirit of New 
England to undertake the terrible ordeal of the 
strife against slavery: 

They maiched with Arnold at their head, 

Our soldiers true and brave. 
To far-off heights of Canada, 

By wood and rock and wave. 
They left the scenes behind perchance 

They might not see again; 
The homesteads fair, the fields which smiled 

With autumn's ripened grain; 



CALEB Haskell's diary. 



23 



And forlh they marched to meet the foe, 
The invader's course to check. 

When the autnmo leaves were brightening 
Along the Kennebec. 

On throuch the deep and darkening wood. 

Through hush and brake and brier. 
The «i)lf howl round thcr path by day, 

H.v nlL'lit hcvoiul their fire,- 
Thcir camp tire where, all travel-worn. 

When fording lake and stream 
Chilled with the wave, with hunger faint. 

They laid them dmvn to dream 
Of those dear homes they left behiml; 

A dim and lesseiiing speck. 
When they marched away to Canada, 

Beside the Kennebec. 

And one, a brave and noble boy, 

Wiih kindling cheek and eye, 
Whose sni.le and voice brought light to all. 

Lay down at last to die- 



To die of hunger's gnawing pain, 

A fate that some must share. 
Who closed with tears his soft blue eyes. 

And heard his dying prayer. 
They took a bright curl from his brow,- 

The 'kerchief from his neck. 
And laia him 'neath the autumn leaves. 

Beside the Kecnebec. 

Within a fair New England home 

Are kept those relics yet; 
The story of our stormy Past 

True hearts will not forget. 
A sister's love kept bright this theme. 

It passed from sire to 6on;— 
And now, when winter evenings come, 

And talk and song are done. 
The grandsire tells the story o'er, 

With a tear he will not check. 
Of the boy who died so long ago. 

Beside the Kennebec. 



g8 f 



pte 



r CALEB HASKELL'S DL4in 




May 5, 1775-May 30, 1776. 



A Kevoj.utioxaky Soldier's Recoud before Bos- 
ton AND WITH xVrNOLD'S QuEBEC EXPEDITION. 



irrni), with notes, by lothrop withington 



mp 
^£9^^ 



NEWBUKYPORT: 

PUBLISH EO BY WILLIAM H. HUSK A COMPANY. 

18S1. 



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